1 Timothy 1:3

KJV

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

KJV (with Strong's)

As {G2531} I besought {G3870} thee {G4571} to abide still {G4357} at {G1722} Ephesus {G2181}, when I went {G4198} into {G1519} Macedonia {G3109}, that {G2443} thou mightest charge {G3853} some {G5100} that they teach {G2085} no {G3361} other doctrine {G2085},

Complete Jewish Bible

As I counseled you when I was leaving for Macedonia, stay on in Ephesus, so that you may order certain people who are teaching a different doctrine to stop.

Berean Standard Bible

As I urged you on my departure to Macedonia, you should stay on at Ephesus to instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines

American Standard Version

As I exhorted thee to tarry at Ephesus, when I was going into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge certain men not to teach a different doctrine,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Timothy 1:3 opens with the Apostle Paul reminding Timothy of the specific instruction he gave him upon departing Ephesus for Macedonia: to remain in Ephesus and confront those who were teaching doctrines contrary to the apostolic truth. This foundational verse establishes the primary purpose of the letter—to equip Timothy for the crucial task of safeguarding the purity of the gospel and maintaining order within the Ephesian church, particularly in the face of emerging false teachings.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate precursor to Paul's detailed instructions regarding the nature of the false teachings and the proper conduct within the church. Following the standard Pauline salutation in [1 Timothy 1:1-2](/1_timothy/1-1-2 "1 Timothy 1:1-2 - Paul's Greeting to Timothy"), verse 3 immediately plunges into the core reason for Timothy's continued presence in Ephesus. It sets the stage for the subsequent discussions on the law's proper use ([1 Timothy 1:8-11](/1_timothy/1-8-11 "1 Timothy 1:8-11 - The Purpose of the Law")), the qualifications for church leadership ([1 Timothy 3](/1_timothy/3 "1 Timothy 3 - Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons")), and the warnings against various forms of doctrinal error and ungodliness that permeate the letter. The entire epistle flows from this initial charge, making [1 Timothy 1:3](/1_timothy/1-3 "1 Timothy 1:3 - Paul's Charge to Timothy") a programmatic statement for the rest of Paul's counsel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ephesus was a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, renowned for its immense Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This city was a melting pot of diverse philosophical schools, mystery religions, and pagan practices, which often infiltrated early Christian communities. Paul had spent a significant period ministering in Ephesus, establishing a strong church there during his third missionary journey ([Acts 19:1-10](/acts/19-1-10 "Acts 19:1-10 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus")). However, even during his farewell to the Ephesian elders, he had prophetically warned them about the future emergence of "savage wolves" who would not spare the flock and would distort the truth to draw away disciples ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning to the Ephesian Elders")). Timothy, Paul's trusted protégé, was left in Ephesus specifically to address these anticipated challenges, particularly the rise of false teachers who threatened the nascent church's doctrinal purity and spiritual health.
* **Key Themes:** The central command in [1 Timothy 1:3](/1_timothy/1-3 "1 Timothy 1:3 - Paul's Charge to Timothy") immediately introduces several key themes that resonate throughout the Pastoral Epistles. Firstly, the **Combating of False Doctrine** is paramount, highlighting Paul's unwavering concern for the integrity of the gospel message. The prohibition against teaching "other doctrine" underscores that doctrinal purity is not peripheral but foundational to Christian faith and practice. Secondly, the theme of **Pastoral Responsibility** is clearly articulated; Timothy is not merely to observe but to actively "charge some" to cease their erroneous teaching. This demonstrates the authoritative, protective, and proactive nature of pastoral ministry in safeguarding the flock from spiritual danger. Finally, the verse implicitly emphasizes the **Importance of Sound Doctrine**, contrasting "other doctrine" with the implied true teaching, which Paul elaborates on throughout the letter (e.g., [1 Timothy 4:6](/1_timothy/4-6 "1 Timothy 4:6 - Nourished in the Words of Faith")). The health and spiritual growth of the church are inextricably linked to its commitment to biblical truth.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **besought (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** This verb, G3870, means "to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)." It conveys a sense of earnest request, exhortation, or strong appeal rather than a mere casual suggestion. Paul's "beseeching" of Timothy carries the weight of apostolic authority blended with deep pastoral concern, emphasizing the gravity and urgency of the task at hand. It's a plea born of conviction and love for the church.
* **abide still (Greek, _prosménō'_):** G4357 signifies "to stay further, i.e., remain in a place, with a person; figuratively, to adhere to, persevere in." The emphasis is on persistent presence and steadfastness. Timothy's assignment was not temporary or fleeting, but a sustained commitment to the Ephesian church, requiring endurance and faithfulness in the face of ongoing challenges. It implies a firm resolve to remain and fulfill the mission.
* **other doctrine (Greek, _heterodidaskaléō'_):** This compound word, G2085, derived from _héteros_ ("another of a different kind") and _didáskalos_ ("teacher"), literally means "to instruct differently" or "to teach other doctrine." It points to teachings that are not merely supplementary or slightly varied, but fundamentally divergent from the apostolic tradition. This term signals a significant departure from the core, revealed truths of the gospel, highlighting the dangerous nature of the error Timothy was to confront.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus":** This clause establishes the continuity of Paul's instruction to Timothy. The "besought" (or "urged") indicates a strong, intentional directive given by Paul to Timothy before Paul's departure. Timothy's role in Ephesus was not self-appointed but a specific, weighty commission from his mentor. The command to "abide still" emphasizes the necessity of Timothy's continued presence and steadfastness in the city, indicating that his work there was ongoing and critical.
* **"when I went into Macedonia":** This phrase provides the specific temporal and geographical context for Paul's instruction. It marks the moment of their separation and the transfer of immediate pastoral responsibility to Timothy in Ephesus. Paul's journey to Macedonia (likely from Troas, as suggested by [2 Corinthians 2:12-13](/2_corinthians/2-12-13 "2 Corinthians 2:12-13 - Paul's Anxiety in Troas") or a later trip) necessitated Timothy's continued presence to manage the Ephesian church in Paul's absence.
* **"that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine":** This is the crucial purpose clause, revealing the specific and urgent reason for Timothy's assignment. The verb "charge" (Greek: _parangéllō_) conveys a strong command or injunction, indicating Timothy's apostolic authority to address the issue. The target of this charge is "some" within the Ephesian community who were propagating "other doctrine" (Greek: _heterodidaskaléō_). This phrase signifies teachings that were qualitatively different and contrary to the true gospel, posing a direct threat to the church's spiritual health and unity. Timothy's primary mission was to halt this doctrinal deviation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. **Apostolic Authority** is implicit in Paul's "besought" and Timothy's subsequent "charge," underscoring the hierarchical and divinely appointed nature of their ministry. The **Contrast** between Paul's departure and Timothy's remaining highlights the continuity of pastoral care and the delegation of responsibility. Most prominently, **Euphemism** or **Understatement** is used in the phrase "other doctrine." While seemingly mild, this term, _heterodidaskaléō_, carries significant theological weight, implying a dangerous deviation from foundational truth rather than a mere difference of opinion. This subtle choice of words serves to underscore the gravity of the doctrinal threat without explicitly detailing its content in this opening statement, leaving the reader to anticipate the subsequent exposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Timothy 1:3 lays the groundwork for the profound theological truth that the integrity of the gospel message is paramount for the health and vitality of the church. Paul's urgent command to Timothy to combat "other doctrine" underscores that the church's mission and spiritual well-being are inextricably linked to its adherence to sound teaching. This concern for doctrinal purity is not merely an academic exercise but a pastoral imperative, as false teaching inevitably leads to spiritual harm, division, and a distorted understanding of God's character and salvation. The verse thus establishes a foundational principle for all Christian ministry: the unwavering commitment to guarding and proclaiming the truth of Christ against all forms of error.

* [Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - Paul's Rebuke Against False Gospels")
* [2 Timothy 4:1-5](/2_timothy/4-1-5 "2 Timothy 4:1-5 - Paul's Charge to Timothy to Preach the Word")
* [Titus 1:9-11](/titus/1-9-11 "Titus 1:9-11 - Qualifications for Elders and Rebuking False Teachers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This opening charge to Timothy resonates deeply with the contemporary church, serving as a timeless reminder of the ongoing battle for truth. In an age characterized by diverse narratives, subjective interpretations, and a proliferation of information, the call to discern and uphold sound doctrine is more critical than ever. Believers are exhorted to cultivate spiritual discernment, grounding their faith not in fleeting trends or charismatic personalities, but in the enduring, unchanging Word of God. For church leaders, this verse is a solemn charge to faithfully shepherd the flock, actively protecting it from theological deviations that can undermine faith and lead to spiritual shipwreck. It demands courage to confront error, wisdom to articulate truth, and a steadfast commitment to teaching the whole counsel of God, ensuring that the church remains a pillar and buttress of the truth in a world desperately searching for it.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Paul's urgent "beseeching" of Timothy impact your view of the importance of doctrinal purity in the church today?**
* **In what ways might "other doctrine" manifest itself in contemporary Christian contexts, and how can believers effectively discern it?**
* **What is your personal responsibility in upholding and contending for sound doctrine within your sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**What kind of "other doctrine" was being taught in Ephesus?**

Answer: While [1 Timothy 1:3](/1_timothy/1-3 "1 Timothy 1:3 - Paul's Charge to Timothy") itself does not specify the exact nature of the "other doctrine" (Greek: _heterodidaskaléō_), the subsequent verses and the rest of the letter provide clues. Paul later mentions "fables and endless genealogies" ([1 Timothy 1:4](/1_timothy/1-4 "1 Timothy 1:4 - Fables and Genealogies")), the misuse of the Law ([1 Timothy 1:7-11](/1_timothy/1-7-11 "1 Timothy 1:7-11 - The Law's Proper Use")), and later, prohibitions against marriage and certain foods ([1 Timothy 4:3](/1_timothy/4-3 "1 Timothy 4:3 - False Teachings about Marriage and Food")). These elements suggest a syncretistic blend of Jewish legalism, Gnostic-like speculation, and ascetic practices that deviated from the simplicity and grace of the gospel. The false teachers were likely promoting a system of salvation or spiritual advancement based on human effort, special knowledge, or adherence to external regulations, rather than faith in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The charge in [1 Timothy 1:3](/1_timothy/1-3 "1 Timothy 1:3 - Paul's Charge to Timothy") to combat "other doctrine" finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who is the embodiment of all truth and the very Word of God made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). All false doctrine, by its very nature, distorts or diminishes the glory, sufficiency, or centrality of Christ. When Paul commands Timothy to ensure that no "other doctrine" is taught, he is implicitly calling for the unadulterated proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ—His perfect life, atoning death, glorious resurrection, and ongoing reign. Jesus Himself warned against false prophets ([Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - Beware of False Prophets")) and emphasized that His words are spirit and life ([John 6:63](/john/6-63 "John 6:63 - Words of Life")). The true doctrine, therefore, is always Christ-centered, revealing Him as the sole means of salvation ([Acts 4:12](/acts/4-12 "Acts 4:12 - Salvation Through No Other Name")) and the complete revelation of God ([Hebrews 1:1-3](/hebrews/1-1-3 "Hebrews 1:1-3 - God's Final Word Through His Son")). Timothy's mission, and indeed the mission of the church throughout history, is to guard and propagate this singular truth, ensuring that Christ remains supreme in all things ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ is the Head of the Body")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Galatians 1:6

¶ I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

Galatians 1:7

Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

1 Timothy 6:3

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

2 John 1:9

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.

2 John 1:10

¶ If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed:

Titus 1:9

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

Titus 1:11

Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.